Speaking at the ANC's 2025 Liberation Movements Summit in Kempton Park, ZANUâ€"PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa said Washington should not 'misdirect itself' in its diplomatic approach to South Africa.
He emphasised that such issues could be resolved without resorting to sanctions, but if the US chooses otherwise, Zimbabwe is prepared, having endured sanctions for over two decades.
'These sanctions have not stopped Zimbabwe's progress. In fact, we are emerging as one of the most dynamic economies on the continent,' Mutsvangwa told the media.
He highlighted Zimbabwe's growing steel industry as a symbol of the country's resilience, adding that even the US might view this development with 'a bit of jealousy.'
The US has had strained relations with Zimbabwe for more than 20 years. Initially imposed in the early 2000s, sanctions targeted former President Robert Mugabe and senior officials over allegations of democratic erosion.
Last year, Washington imposed sanctions on President Emmerson Mnangagwa, accusing him of human rights violations following a contested 2023 election. However, on March 4, 2024, President Joe Biden lifted all US sanctions on Zimbabwe, ending the sanctions program.
Mutsvangwa encouraged South Africa to remain optimistic and not be 'pushed around by superpowers,' emphasising shared experiences and resources between the two countries.
The call comes amid the introduction of the US and South Africa Bilateral Relations Review Act of 2025, proposed by Congressman Ronny Jackson. The bill could sanction ANC leaders accused of supporting US adversaries such as China, Russia, and Iran.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the issue during a visit to BMW South Africa, acknowledging the legislative process was ongoing. He expressed hope for continued diplomatic engagement with the US and a positive outcome that would strengthen bilateral relations.
Meanwhile, the ANC is appealing to US Democrats, especially those who supported the anti-apartheid movement, to oppose the bill.
ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri stressed that the party will resist any efforts to isolate it through renewed sanctions, recalling the isolation they faced under apartheid-era sanctions backed by some Western countries.
The bill has passed key US House committees and now awaits a full vote in the House of Representatives.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/zimbabwe-calls-on-south-africa-to-resist-us-sanctions-threats
